[He shouldn't be so easily affected by one look or some words, but Bruce has always been sensitive to people he cares about - and Pepper is the one person he cares for the most. And not to mention Tony...
Focus, Banner. He's here for a reason, he reminds himself for the millionth time. He can't afford distractions. They are the same person, but they're not them. That's for his younger self, not him. Never for him.]
I appreciate-- [He starts, and then abruptly cuts off as his chest suddenly clenches up without warning. Bruce begins to cough, seemingly mild at first, but it quickly turns into a fit and Bruce quickly realizes what's going on.
Fuck, why was it happening right now? Bruce has to stumble back, trying to get to the closet thing he can get to for support before the seizure stops him in his tracks properly and then things were going to get messy then. And that's the last thing he wants Tony and Pepper to see right now.]